To get started in Linux, I tried 2:
Redhat 7.2, and Mandrake 8.1
Both required my input to partition the hard drive, and since I didn't know what Linux needed, it took a long time to figure out. Anyway, I finally figured out enough to do the install, and guess what, (my computer at the time was a Presario 4880) neither distro would boot up. Computer problem? Maybe. Frustrated? Yes.
Finally, I found a copy of Suse 7.3 cheap. Results?:
Braindead install! Flawless LILO bootloader! Beautiful GUI! All the apps that I need.
You should read my post in "Easiest way to Linux"
Anyway, I like it! I can't find any reason to try Redhat at all.
SuSe is in United Linux, while Redhat is not, and does not want to join in.
I think SuSe is leading the way to a desktop Linux.